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Naturally occurring tularemia in a dog
Katrina R Meinkoth1, Rebecca J Morton, James H Meinkoth
1Office of Admissions and Recruitment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 4, 2004
Summary
Tularemia, a bacterial disease, can be diagnosed in dogs through lymph node aspiration and culture. Early detection in dogs exposed to rabbits is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Canine Health
Background:
- Tularemia is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Francisella tularensis.
- Rabbits are a common reservoir for F. tularensis, posing a risk to domestic animals.
- Acute onset of lethargy, anorexia, and weakness in dogs can indicate various infectious diseases.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old Irish Setter presented with acute lethargy, anorexia, and weakness after consuming an adult rabbit.
- Differential diagnoses included ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever due to overlapping clinical signs.
- The dog was treated with doxycycline and supportive care.
Findings:
- Bacteriologic cultures of fine-needle aspirates from lymph nodes confirmed tularemia.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays further validated the diagnosis.
- Successful antemortem diagnosis was achieved through lymph node aspiration and culture.
Implications:
- Lymph node aspiration and bacteriologic culture are effective methods for the early diagnosis of tularemia in dogs.
- Prompt diagnosis allows for timely initiation of antibiotic therapy, improving prognosis.
- This case highlights the importance of considering tularemia in dogs with relevant exposure history and compatible clinical signs.